Louis van Gaal hands Mikel Arteta major £25m Arsenal transfer boost amid shock Man United snub

Arsenal are looking to improve in the defensive department ahead of the new campaign. And it seems Edu has identified Lisandro Martinez as the ideal defender to help the Gunners.

However, It could be Louis van Gaal who plays the biggest part in ensuring a deal between Ajax and Arsenal for Martinez happens due to his World Cup squad selection in November. Another Ajax defender in Jurrien Timber has also been linked with a move away from the Eredivise but now this seems unlikely.

It would be unlikely for Ajax to sell both of their starting centre-backs in the summer transfer window. Arsenal may have been given a boost by Timber’s potential decision to stay at the club.

Aaron Ramsdale reveals Edu's key Arsenal negotiation tactic for Arsenal to sign £25m-rated star

Speaking to Sky Sports, Dutch journalist Marcel van der Kraan explained how former United boss Van Gaal persuaded Timber to opt against joining Manchester United.

Video: All you need to know about Arsenal target Lisandro Martinez (Football London)

Leeds United's Raphinha moving to Arsenal is a realistic possibility

All you need to know about the Chelsea and Sterling transfer negotiations

All you need to know about Arsenal transfer target Gabriel Jesus

Tottenham announce the signing of Yves Bissouma

Romelu Lukaku wants Inter Milan return

Mikel Arteta On Whether Arsenal Will Have Funds For Transfers This Summer

Porto agree to sell Fabio Vieira to Arsenal in £34m deal

Bukayo Saka skips England training to meet Charles and Camilla

“The player was ready, I think, to come. His agent went over to London to Manchester United’s offices two weeks ago and they had very good talks,” Van der Kraan said.

“Money was never a problem, but then one man turned up – Louis van